Camping options near Delmont, Pennsylvania range from lakeside sites to mountaintop retreats, all within the rolling Appalachian foothills. The area sits at elevations between 1,000-1,500 feet, creating microclimates that can be 5-10 degrees cooler than Pittsburgh. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall nights can drop into the 40s, requiring campers to pack additional layers regardless of season.
What to do
Fishing in stocked waters: At Crooked Creek Lake, the lake is ideal for kayaking and fishing. "The lake is great for kayaking or small boats. We fish and kayak the creek opposite the lake," notes Jennifer P. The manmade lake is maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers.
Biking accessible trails: The Great Allegheny Passage connects multiple campgrounds in the region. At Dravo's Landing Campground, "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River. Access from the Allegheny Gap trail," says Lauren C. The site is popular with riders making the trek between Pittsburgh and Washington D.C.
Boulder climbing for beginners: Laurel Hill State Park offers accessible rock formations. "There was easy little rocks to boulder and climb! And even a few smaller caves to explore!" writes Jill R. These formations provide entry-level climbing opportunities without specialized equipment.
Water recreation options: Bush Recreation Area features a boat launch and swimming area. "The boat launch is a nice size to fit 2 boats at a time. The only problem is the beach is not that great. However we stayed out in the boat on the lake most of the time," mentions AnnaMarie S. Rental equipment is available seasonally at most lake facilities.
What campers like
Hillside camping with privacy: Campers at Keystone State Park Campground consistently prefer the hillside section over lakeside options. "There are 2 campgrounds in the park, the hillside one and the one on the lake. The lakeside one is a glorified trailer park and is packed during the summer with no privacy. The hillside one doesn't get near the crowds and it set in the woods," reports Matt R.
Level sites for ease of setup: Fox Den Acres Campground offers well-prepared tent sites. "Each site was very spacious and well shaded. Fire ring and table at each sight. Restroom were a short walk away," reports Dena L., noting the campground works well for tent campers despite being primarily RV-focused.
Mountaintop views and quiet atmosphere: At Mountain Top Campground, the panoramic settings stand out. "It's cute. Wide open grass land with sites around the perimeter. Half a dozen of them (premium) are at the edge and have a nice view to the hills beyond," writes Jennifer H. The elevated location provides natural cooling during summer months.
Trail-adjacent camping: Multiple campgrounds connect directly to regional trails. Shari G. notes at the GAP Trail Campground, "Town is a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well." This access allows campers to reach services without vehicles.
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep: Campgrounds along the Great Allegheny Passage experience railroad disruptions. "It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up – so bring good earplugs if you hope to sleep!" advises Shari G. about Dravo's Landing.
Variable site conditions: At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, "All sites are gravel; most appeared level, but some did not. All sites are wooded but some have more separation than others," reports Lee D. Research specific site numbers before booking.
Limited market access: Many campgrounds lack on-site stores. One visitor advises, "Make sure you grocery shopping before you pull in," when staying at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA. Most food supplies require a 15-30 minute drive to nearby towns.
Water tank limitations: Shower facilities vary widely. At Laurel Hill State Park, one camper notes some cabins have "very small water tank, it goes lukewarm to cold quick." Shared shower facilities often require quarters for operation.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity matters: When camping with children, site selection can make the experience easier. At Bush Recreation Area, Tim J. recommends specific sites: "We rented space 16 late August 2020 and our friends rented #17 on the inner circle, right next to us with the playground right behind us. Great spots! Our kids were within easy eye and earshot of the playground."
Lake activities are age-dependent: Crooked Creek Lake offers family-friendly swimming but conditions vary. "The creek was nice to cool off in, though other campers said they wouldn't dare get in the murky water," notes Megan D. Water clarity changes throughout the season.
Evening entertainment options: Organized activities vary by campground. At Fox Den Acres, "They provide activities almost every evening, making sure everything age range is catered to throughout the week," shares Heather H. Check event calendars when booking.
Off-peak benefits: Visiting before Memorial Day or after Labor Day means significantly less crowded facilities. Lee D. notes about Laurel Hill State Park, "We were surprised that just a few days before Memorial Day, only a handful of sites were occupied."
Tips from RVers
Access routes matter: Mountain Top Campground requires careful navigation. "The roads get narrow so if in an RV call them for the easiest way in," advises Corey L. GPS directions often route larger vehicles down unsuitable roads.
Hookup configurations: At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, site leveling can be challenging. "I couldn't get it level with my Anderson levelers it was pretty slopped. On my way out I heard they were having someone come in to level the sites," reports Patience W. Always carry additional leveling blocks.
Grey water solutions: Mountain Top Campground offers a unique solution for extended stays. "Since they sit atop the mountain, the grey water hookup is a long hose that has an adapter which hooks up to your black and grey tank outlet and it runs down the hillside of the mountain into the grassy area," explains Dave. This allows water conservation while managing waste.
Site angle considerations: At Laurel Hill State Park, "the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites," warns Kathy L. Request specific site photos before committing to reservations for larger rigs.
